At some time or other in one’s life, he may have entertained the idea of starting a small business. This individual perhaps even laid some foundational items to launch a business but for many reasons walked away from it or it fizzled. Many times, if that enthusiastic individual could have received a little direction and support, the business would have succeeded. The small business development center in most metropolitan areas is the support system that will make a difference between succeeding and failing.
The Who of It All
The small business development center is an organization created and funded by government agencies to enrich the local and regional area on an economic basis. There are also small business development centers that are created and funded by educational entities. This provides two things. It is a way students can intern in a business environment and is also a method of providing a place for the community to learn how to start a business and obtain support after starting it to navigate complicated waters.
The Where of It All
A small business development center will be found in metropolitan areas or perhaps along with other government offices. Since these centers are created and funded with government money, they may have available grants or loans an individual can apply for in an effort to start a small business. On the other hand, if the development center is created and funded by a local educational organization, such as a university or community college, it will more than likely be located within the university or the community college network of buildings.
The What of It All
The small business development center exists solely for the purpose of helping individuals develop a small business. The services that are provided at either government or privately owned centers offer guidance, first in creating a business plan. Once the business plan has been created according to what the business hopes to accomplish and how, the development centers will assist in finding financial packages or grants that will launch the small business.
After the business is launched, there will be continued support as growth happens and the needs of the business evolve. Basic administrative needs, hiring methods and accounting problems are all items the development center can provide support with on an ongoing basis. If the business owner has a particular problem or need, the center may even put on a group seminar addressing those issues.